Stephen Pishner, Italian American Member & Performer

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Stephen Pishner comes from a small coal mining town in West Virginia, yet he’s always has a deep pride for his Italian ancestry. He’s the founder of the band AMICI, which performs some of the most recognizable
Italian favorites throughout the country, in addition to performing top 40 hits. But it’s his knowledge of traditional Italian music that’s earned him a seat at the table as one of the most formidable musicians in the Italian genre.

What caught my attention about Stephen is his genuine love of Italian music and spreading that joy wherever he goes. He’s played in the Columbus Day Parade in NYC – not an easy gig to get – and has caught the
attention of some of the nations top musicians. Throughout our interview, we’ll also talk with Stephen about family, heritage, and the deep connection Italian Americans have to finding their roots, which Stephen has embarked upon.

He says researching his family history has shaped his understanding of identity, culture, and the legacy of being Italian. We’ll talk about the importance of preserving our collective Italian stories, honoring
past generations and keeping traditions alive. And for Stephen, it’s through music.

Where will he perform next? Listen to our interview to find out where you can enjoy AMICI. Our #DeborahKobyltLIVE & #LittleItalyPodcast are available on all video and audio podcast platforms. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt,
and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here.

Mike Marino, Actor, Comedian, Podcast Host

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Please welcome one of the funniest guys in comedy today, Mike Marino, who hails from New Jersey, next to the town where I was born. Mike manages to turn circumstances from everyday life as a proud Italian-American into something we can all relate to – funny, relatable, ridiculous.

He went on a campaign to “Make America Italian Again” which attracted a cult following. He hosts the popular podcast, “Live From My Mother’s Basement,” which is literally recorded in the basement of the home where he grew up. In fact, with the recent death of his parents, he bought the house, and starts each morning taking us on a LIVE walk around the neighborhood, sharing his thoughts of the day. And these days, there’s a lot to share.

While performing on a cruise ship last year, he became ill. Doctors found a tumor in his brain which they removed. Now he’s on another campaign – to get healthy with the help of his beautiful fiancée, Heather. He’s currently also working on a new TV special with the working title, “Mike Marino: Back 2 School,” and he’s back performing LIVE this week, so check his social for deets.

Mike has performed at the Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, Carnegie Hall, and he’s entertained veterans for which he earned the USO Bob Hope Comedy Award. He’s also a successful actor, having appeared on Frazier and so many other shows and commercials. He’s got a lot to share, not only about comedy, but about loss, family, being Italian, and his recent health scare that literally knocked him off his feet.

Please find my full conversation with #MikeMarino on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here.

And congrats, Mike, for being inducted into the N.J. Comedy Hall of Fame.

Monica Guerritore, Acclaimed Actress, Writer, Director, “ANNA: The Untold Story”

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Please welcome acclaimed actress Monica Guerritore to our show, who joins us to talk about her magnificent film, “Anna – The Untold Story” – about the life of legendary actress Anna Magnini, specifically set on the night of 1956 when Anna won theAcademy Award for Best Actress for “The Rose Tattoo.” @AnnaIlfilm

She was the first Italian actress to win an Oscar. The film portrays Anna as a woman of immense strength and passion, navigating her private struggles and memories while wandering the streets of Rome.

Monica wrote, directed, and also stars in the film, offering a rich portrayal of Anna the person as opposed to the cinema icon. It’s an incredible story, told from the heart, and so beautifully acted by Monica, I was left speechless. I wanted to understand Monica’s process in capturing the story of Anna, as well as her keen interest. The film, which debuted in Los Angeles for International Women’s Day, also stars Tommaso Ragno, Beatrice Granno, and Lucia Mascino.

I love a story about strong women, particularly Italian women. Today, I not only interview one – Monica – we talk about one as well – Anna.

Please join me on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here. Please share with your friends and family as well.

Suzanne Cope, Italian Women Warriors

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Today, I present an extraordinary true story for Women’s History Month, written by Suzanne Cope, “Women Of War: The Italian Assassins, Spies, and Couriers Who Fought the Nazis.”

This is the untold story of the women who risked their lives to secretly pass messages, ammunition, and other secrets to help fight the Nazis who were occupying Italy in the 1940’s. The book focuses on four women – in their early 20s – who would do their work on bicycle and on foot, carrying messages in a loaf of bread or hiding munitions in their overcoats, and risking their lives to do it.

This is a hidden chapter of Italian history — women of the Resistance who fought Fascism and Nazi occupation while living their everyday lives. And what they did mattered, as told by author and journalist Suzanne Cope, who conducted meticulous research for this book. The women highlighted here carried notes, transported weapons, organized strikes, and committed acts of extraordinary bravery, yet their stories had been overlooked for decades. Until now. In fact, these stories are perhaps more significant as women face challenges around the world to stand up for their rights and freedom.

Please find my full conversation with Suzanne Cope on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast.

I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I thank you for joining us.

Simon Poole, MD & Amy Riolo, Authors, Managing Cholesterol for Dummies

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Got high cholesterol? There’s ways to manage it, and I’ll be speaking with nutrition expert Amy Riolo & Dr. Simon Poole about their latest book, “Managing Cholesterol for Dummies.” This is a comprehensive look into how we can manage cholesterol, inflammation, and oxidation levels in our bodies, in addition to addressing who might be at cardiovascular risk and how to safely manage it.

The duo will show us easy lifestyle changes and healthy recipes to incorporate into our every day lives. We will also discuss how to understand “good” and “bad” cholesterol, because a lot has changed in recent years.

Also, we could be at risk for cardiovascular disease and not even know it, and we will discuss those early warning signs. In addition, Amy and Simon will guide to us on what to ask our doctors, because let’s face it, we often go to the doctor’s office and leave with our questions unanswered. As for medicines, they will discuss treatment options, medicines, and holistic approaches to cholesterol management. So there’s a lot to go over.

Amy Riolo and Dr. Simon Poole have written a variety of “Dummies” books guiding us to better health and nutrition. I’m honored to welcome them back to our show to discuss managing cholesterol, something we eventually all need.

Please find my full conversation with Amy Riolo and Dr. Simon Poole on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here.

Alexia Melocchi, Global Producer, Author, “The Art of Show Biz” & Producer, Little Studio Films

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

There’s a lot of talk about the changes in Hollywood, a city that has been at the center of moviemaking and TV production for nearly a century. So we invited producer and writer Alexia Melocchi, who co-authored the book, “The Heart of Show Business,” to talk about what’s really happening in this city of dreams. Alexia will discuss in detail a road map to navigating how work is getting done in this new era.

“The Heart of Show Business” speaks with industry professionals from writers, directors, actors, athletes, and more, discussing how to stay ahead and win at every level. Each chapter offers career insights and professional advice from with a variety of successful individuals, including Blair Underwood, Keith Mitchell, Rev. Michael Beckwith, Jean-Michel Cousteau and many others. I found it deeply interesting to dive into the mindset of industry pros, a terrific tool for any profession.

But in the ever-changing entertainment industry, it’s critical to stay one step ahead. Whether it’s Ai, digital, the business of acting, where the industry is headed,
or how to learn the ABC’s of filmmaking, Alexia offers an interesting perspective on what’s next.

Please find my full interview with Alexia on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, & #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast.

I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here.

Bruno Serato, Founder, Caterina’s Club & Anaheim White House

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Bruno Serato, owner of the Anaheim White House Restaurant and founder of Caterina’s Club, feeds literally thousands of children and families every day, and he’s raising money so his Caterina’s foundation can continue feeding literally thousands every day who would otherwise go hungry. And he joins us today to talk about it.

Just last week, SoCal powerhouse radio station #KFIam640 (where my husband hosts the #JohnKobyltShow), teamed up with Bruno, Smart & Final, Wendy’s, and De Cecco pasta to raise money and bunches of pasta and sauce so Bruno could continue doing what he does best – feeding hungry people. And the mission has been affectionately called #Pastathon.

Already, they’ve raised close to $1-million dollars, and the campaign is still going, and he’ll talk about how you can help. Now that’s A LOT of Pasta!

Bruno has become a friend over the years, and many of us call him a saint. His generosity was inspired by his mom, Caterina, who gave him the inspiration to feed hungry children in nearby Anaheim. He took the challenge, and so many years later, he’s been recognized by Time Magazine, CNN Heros, the Pope, and others around the globe.

We will talk with Bruno about his humble beginnings before moving to the United States, where his restaurant quickly became a fixture in Southern California. But he’s faced plenty of tough times, too, like when his restaurant burned to the ground a few years ago, and his first thought was, “how will I feed the children.” He rebuilt, and came back stronger than ever.

Please join me in welcoming Bruno Serato on all audio and video platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and our #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and I thank you for joining me.

Pasquale Esposito, Acclaimed Tenor & Carlo Ponti, Famed Conductor, & LA Virtuosi Orchestra

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

When famed tenor and songwriter Pasquale Esposito was growing up in Naples, Italy, the music of Enrico Caruso would play throughout his house, inspiring him to sing at the local church in town. His dream was to come to America, to study and eventually perform. And that’s exactly what he did.

Fast forward twenty-five years, and Pasquale is now performing internationally to critical acclaim, and on Dec. 10, he’ll perform along side world-renowned conductor Maestro Carlo Ponti on the Broad Stage in Santa Monica, California, presenting a magical Holiday concert of American and Italian traditions through spirited carols and emotional Neapolitan melodies. And I’m honored to speak with both gentlemen today on my show.

I’ve known Carlo for some time now, and not only am I a huge fan of his work, but I admire his incredible talent and creative style. I’m also honored to call him a friend.
Most people know he’s the eldest son of the beautiful and talented Ms. Sophia Loren and filmmaker Carlo Ponti, and one can only imagine life growing up among such talent. But not only did Carlo inherit his parents gift of performance, he’s lived his life in service of the arts, having founded the Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra, which raises awareness and funds for music education in the Los Angeles area.

He shares his gift of philanthropy with Pasquale, who founded Notable Music and Arts, a non-profit focused on promoting cultural exchange through music, dance, theater, film, visual arts, and literature. We’ll talk with both of them about this, in addition to their work, life, and upcoming performance at the Broad on 12/10.

Please find my full conversation with Maestro Carlo Ponti and Tenor Pasquale Esposito on all video and audio podcast platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and the #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast.
I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here.

Claudio Santini, World-Renowned Artist & Photographer

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Please welcome to our show internationally-acclaimed photographer, artist, and author Claudio Santini, whose thought-provoking work has inspired much reflection.

When I visited Claudio in his Los Angeles studio recently, I felt I was in the presence of a true genius. His work spoke to me, including his latest collection, focused on capturing a quiet mental state to inspire a better humanity. Today, we’ll speak to Claudio about his life and work, including an exhibit in Naples, Italy, currently running through December.

Claudio was born and raised in Rome, Italy, and developed an early passion for photography. He started his career as an architectural photographer, later exploring the intersection of photography and painting through mixed media. Upon moving to Los Angeles, his work was featured in the New York Times, LA Times, and Domus. You’ve likely seen his work featured in major magazines, too.

And in a world focused on Ai, I wanted to showcase the work of someone inspired by everyday events, people, and nature. Claudio captures the humanity of life just that way, pure and innocent, with texture.

Please enjoy my full conversation with Claudio Santini on all video and audio platforms of #DeborahKobyltLIVE, #LittleItalyPodcast, and the #LittleItalyOfLAPodcast. I’m your host, #DeborahZaraKobylt, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here.

James Tumminia, Actor. Producer

Deborah Kobylt Live, Little Italy of LA

Please welcome to our show James Tumminia, award-winning actor, producer, and
lover of all things Italian, beloved for his role as Angelo in the TV series, “Melissa &
Joey” and much more. And we’ll be talking with James about his work and how he
gets his fix of Italian food and culture in this great city of LA.

As a kid growing up in an Italian-American neighborhood in Brooklyn, James
Tumminia knew two things: he loved all things Italian, and he wanted to be an actor.
And he’s living both.

I first met James at an event at the Italian Cultural Institute in Los Angeles, and
noticed he seemed to be at every Italian gathering throughout the city – and there’s
many. So I thought it appropriate to invite him to talk about all things Italian, in
addition to his life and career, as part of Italian-American Heritage Month.
James studied Italian at Georgetown, which led him to living, studying, and working in
Florence. He played Mario in “Two Scoops of Italy” a Hallmark film, and has been
involved on the producer side of many projects, including, “Love, Guilda,” “1st Strike,”
and many more.

James said he feels the guidance of his ancestral grandparents, all four born in Italy,
and he became an Italian citizen in 2009. He’s currently working on a project he’s
super excited about, “PER CHI,” a short doc he’s producing. We’ll be talking about that.
And while James hails from NY and moved to LA to pursue a career in entertainment,
he says Italy always feels like home, which is why he frequents so many Italian events
in this great city.